North India likely to have harsher winter: IMD

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, November 28

It’s now official. North India will have to brace itself for a colder-than-usual winter this year.

The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted below normal minimum temperatures can be expected over most subdivisions of north, northwest, central and few subdivisions over east India in the upcoming winter season (December to February).

Most of the subdivisions of northeast India, few subdivisions of west coast and south peninsular India are likely to experience above normal minimum temperatures, according to the IMD in its seasonal outlook for temperatures during December 2020 and February 2021.

However, probability forecast for maximum temperature indicates above normal maximum temperatures over most subdivisions of northwest, north, east and northeast India and a few subdivisions of central and peninsular India. Most of the subdivisions of south peninsular India are though likely to experience below normal maximum temperatures. 

Currently, Sea Surface Temperatures are below normal over central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean and moderate La Niña conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific Ocean. The latest MMCFS forecast indicates that the moderate La Niña conditions are likely to continue at least till the end of winter season.